6 businesses highlighted for Ohio Ag Month

COLUMBUS – Secretary of State Jon Husted has announced October as “Agriculture Month.” Throughout the month, the Ohio Business Profile program will highlight various aspects of our state’s agriculture industry.

Approximately one in seven Ohio jobs are supported by the agriculture, generating nearly $105 billion annually. These agribusinesses range from family owned farms to major food processing plants.

“With more than 1,300 family-owned farms that have existed for over a century, agriculture has long been a cornerstone of our state’s economy,” said Secretary Husted. “By embracing bioscience and other innovations, we can ensure that Ohio remains on the cutting edge of breakthroughs to support this industry and its job creators.”

Ohio companies profiled this month include:

• Burnt Toast Farms in Paris Township has biodynamic cut flowers, heirloom and alpacas. With a 20 acre, bio-diverse property, the location doubles as both a working farm, and distinct event venue and destination.

• Gorman Heritage Farm in Evendale has been an educational, nonprofit organization for 20 years. They provide educational opportunities through initiatives such as school field trips, day camps and workshops.

• Mennel in Fostoria started in 1886 and currently has over 500 employees. They started in the flour milling industry, but have grown to include other products such as popcorn and bakery mix.

• Patterson Fruit Farm in Chesterland welcomes customers year round to enjoy many locally grown and made products like fresh produce, syrup from their maple woods, and donuts and freshly baked pies from their onsite bakery.

• Rustic Brew Farm in Marysville is a fourth-generation, family-owned, corn and soybean farm. The entire family is passionate about what they do and hope to bring quality brewing ingredients to brewers for years to come.

• Tiger Mushroom Farms inBlacklick is a family-run farm that specializes in a variety of mushrooms. Tiger Mushrooms Farms started when 7-year-old Te’Lario Watkins II developed a passion for growing plants after participating in a Cub Scout project.